Mae Ping River Cruise

The Mae Ping runs through Chiang Mai and then down to the central plain, where it joins the Chao Phraya. Upstream of the city it keeps a rural character: planted banks, teak houses on stilts, gardens running down to the water and very little river traffic.

The outing runs on an open-topped wooden boat, at walking pace. The route passes traditional northern houses, some of them a century old, and stops at a Thai farm where local crops are explained, from aromatic herbs to orchard fruit. The meal is served on board and chosen from several Thai menus.

It is a calm outing, the opposite of the thrill activities the north is known for. It suits the end of a stay, or a day when you want to slow down. Departure at 1pm, return in the evening.

Good to know: the cruise lasts 2 h 30. The boat leaves every hour, from 9am to 5pm, with a minimum of two participants. Transport from your hotel is free; for city-centre hotels, pick-up is 15 to 20 minutes before departure. For the 4pm and 5pm departures, pick-up is on the outward leg only.